Though I have not yet been, Acadia National Park looks amazing! And October seems to be a great time to visit due to the smaller crowds and cooler hiking weather along trails such as Beehive Loop or the Shore Path. While there, it is recommended to drive the scenic Park Loop Road, bike the historic Carriage Roads, and visit the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, located on the southwestern corner of Mount Desert island within the park.
Hilton Head, South Carolina
Photo by Chad Sparkes
Though I visited here in the month of April (and it was nice), October is another good choice as well. You will experience warm days in the mid-70s mixed with fewer summer crowds and warmer ocean water. Dolphin watching, golfing, kayaking, and fall festivals can all be enjoyed at this time of the year. You won’t want to miss the Hilton Head Island Oktoberfest or Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off & Jeep Island.
Oahu, Hawaii
Photo by Deb Nystrom
Oahu is a magnificent island, with warm weather in October and the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival happening. This is ideal for hiking to Diamond Head, snorkeling at Hanuama Bay, relaxing on Waikiki Beach, and exploring Pearl Harbor. Plus the first whales start arriving from Alaska this month, so be on the lookout for them!
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Photo by Mark Bonica
This city is known for its world-famous International Balloon Fiesta, which is at the beginning to mid-October. It also makes for perfect mild weather to walk around the Albuquerque Old Town area. The Sandia Peak Tramway also offers incredible views of the fall foliage and the city. A hidden gem is said to be the Tinkertown Museum, full of unique architecture, eccentric collections, and interactive displays.
New England
Photo by Andy Thrasher
If you love fall foliage, New England would be a great road trip to take during this season. Stop in Woodstock, Vermont for a cute town known for its classic beauty, ride Mount Washington Cog Railway for exceptional sights, or take a trek at Dixville Notch State Park to see a lake, colorful trees, and Table Rock, a steep granite ledge. Other options include Salem, if that is your cup of tea, or the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Providence, Rhode Island.
Have a great October vacation if you plan to take one. Or I hope this helped you choose where to go!
A major reason to visit Paris in September would be Fashion Week! While the event itself is invitation-only, there are other related things to do such as visiting the fashion museums or enjoy fashion-themed events at places such as the Eiffel Tower, Tuileries Garden, and Louvre Museum. Besides fashion, the European Heritage Days is hosted in Paris. This is an annual event in which historic sites and monuments open doors to the public, usually free of charge, including Palace of Versailles and Arc de Triomphe.
Sydney, Australia
Photo by Bernard Spragg
Sydney is an excellent location to travel to in September, since it is the beginning of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. This brings lovely weather, yet smaller crowds as opposed to the popular summer months. Spring events are held at this time as well, including the Floriade in Canberra, with a large display of tulips and the Royal Adelaide Show, a 9 day long carnival celebrating and connecting communities by showcasing excellence in agriculture and horticulture.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Photo by Philip McErlean
This destination is appealing at this time of year due to milder weather and lower prices. It is a great time to explore the Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile, where you can find unique shops/architecture as well as the Scotch Whiskey Experience. It is also a convenient time to stroll through the Princes Street Gardens, Arthur’s Seat, or Dean Village.
Barcelona, Spain
Photo by Chris Yunker
In September, the weather is enjoyable for parks and beaches. and the crowds are dying down in Barcelona. However, it still has plenty of cultural events for visitors to attend, such as the National Day of Catalonia and the Barcelona International Jazz Festival. Other choices could be taking a train to Montserrat, sitting on a mountain, offering scenic views, or attending a wine tasting in Penedes.
Aruba
Photo by Vlad Podvorny
Lower prices and crowds is an advantage of visiting Aruba in September. The weather is still perfect for visiting Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. The island’s heritage can also be celebrated at Fiesta di Cunucu at this time of year. Attractions such as Arikok National Park, Guadirikiri Cave, and Natural Pool are enticing too. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also available for those who are adventurous!
Visiting somewhere international in September? I’d love to hear where!
I do have to admit, seeing the cherry blossoms in D.C. during March-April is a beautiful sight. But September would be another grand time to take a trip to the capital of the United States. You will never get bored exploring this city, with the free museums, as well as the national zoo! You can easily spend a day there, at attractions such as the botanical gardens and taking a tour of the White House during the day, then attending a concert at one of the many venues at night!
Yellowstone National Park
As it is off-season, September may be a good choice for taking a road trip to Yellowstone. It is an enjoyable time for fishing, backpacking, hiking, camping, and wildlife sightings. The best-known locations are the Old Faithful geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Grand Prismatic Spring. Some moderate trails to hike would be Elephant Back Mountain Trail or Mount Washburn.
Chicago, Illinois
Having visited Chicago during September, I can say it is a good time to go! Though I attended for the North Coast Music Festival, I also got the chance to experience the Chicago Riverwalk, The Bean/Chicago Jazz Festival at Millennium Park, eating deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, and getting drinks at Howl at the Moon. The Windy City Wine Festival and World Music Festival are note-worthy, and the Navy Pier or Skydeck Chicago are other popular attractions to try out.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The temperature here in September is in the 70s and 80s, making it nice for swimming at Rodanthe Beach and climbing the Bodie Island Lighthouse. Interesting events include the Outer Banks Kite Festival and the ESA Easterns Surfing Championship. Water sports available are jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. Dolphin tours, tiki boats, and sunset cruises are offered too!
San Francisco, California
You won’t want to miss out on the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival that takes place in San Francisco during September. I have learned that it is also the best time to go, due to fewer crowds and great weather. At Presidio Tunnel Tops, you will have fantastic views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Important points of interest may be Pier 39, right down from Fisherman’s Wharf, Aquarium of the Bay, or a tour of Alcatraz Island.
With it typically being in the 70s in Fiji during the month of June with hardly any rain, how could you not want to visit? Especially if you are intrigued by kiteboarding, surfing, or marine life sightings. Going to the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, walking down the Lavena Coastal Walk, dipping in the Sabeto Hot Spring Mud Pool, and touring the Garden of the Sleeping Giant are other fun activities to try! Not to mention the amazing Volivoli Beach, Natadola Beach, and Blue Lagoon.
London, England
Photo by Phil Fiddyment
With the weather being warm, June is, unfortunately, peak season. But for good reason! There are ample places to see, such as the Thames River by boat tour, or the famous tower of Big Ben and Kensington Palace via the classic red double-decker buses. The London Gallery Weekend, London Open Gardens, Zoo Nights at the London Zoo, and musicals at the theatre are exciting events that occur in this month.
The Swiss Alps
Photo by Artur Swaszewski
Though the average temperature in June is 70 degrees in Switzerland, you can still get a view of the mountain peaks topped with snow and marvelous lakes, such as Lake Lugano or Maggiore. Other than hiking to the beautiful sights, you can witness them by cable cars at Mount Pilatus, paragliding in Interlaken, or railroad tours throughout multiple cities! The Street Artists Festival and International Jazz Festival take place in the nearby cities.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Photo by Janice Waltzer
In June, the temperature in Rio is usually in the 70s and 80s with low chance of rain. In Tijuca Forest National Park, you will find the widely known Christ the Redeemer landmark, along with waterfalls, caves, and wildlife. Ipanema Beach and Jardim Botânico are pretty tourist sights as well. In Santa Teresa, you can walk along the cobblestone streets to view the art galleries, eateries, and craft stores. Unique sports such as “foot volleyball” (a combination of volleyball and football) and frescobol (similar to tennis yet with small wooden bats) are played here.
Capri, Italy
Photo by Jimmy Mallinson
Capri, Italy is a nice place to visit in June, since the weather is around 80 degrees and the water is warm enough to swim in. This summer month is ideal for sailing along the Amalfi Coast during the day and hitting the clubs at night! A must-see would be the Blue Grotto, which is a sea cave that gives the water a blue glow. And, at the highest point of Monte Salaro, which can be traveled to by chair life, you will catch amazing views of Capri and Mount Vesuvius.
See any you cities that peak your interest for the month of June? Let me know in the comments below.
You have to admit, Hawaii is, hands down, the most gorgeous state in the United States. It is located in the south-western part of the U.S., nearly 2,000 from the mainland. It is the home of 137 volcanic islands, as well as, Polynesian culture, whether it be cuisine, traditions, mythology, or etiquette.
The state is comprised of 8 main islands, 7 of which are inhabited and only 6 of which can be visited by the public. So, which of the 6 should you catch a flight to? I’ll help you decide by giving you a summary of each one.
Kauai
Photo by Imogene Huxham
Kauai is filled with valleys, mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, and cliffs, which is why it is referred to as the “Garden Island.” The bad part is that the average annual rainfall is high, and it is generally humid. But if you don’t mind either of those conditions, Kauai could be the island to pick.
It is less of a tourist-filled location, and more of a rural area. However, the extraordinary sunsets and beaches make this island attractive for some travelers.
Kauai was also the set for the films Honeymoon in Vegas, South Pacific, Blue Hawaii, Jurassic World,Soul Surfer,The Descendants, Pirates of the Carribean: On Stranger Tides, Avatar, and King Kong.
In addition, there is an array of activities to choose from, such as horseback riding, snorkeling, kayaking along the river, ziplining in the jungle, taking a helicopter tour, visiting historical landmarks, farmers markers, playing a round of golf, or riding ATVs.
Points of interest:
Waimea Canyon
Na Pali State Coast Wildnerness Park
Limahuli Garden & Preserve
Princeville Botanical Gardens
Hawaiian Trading Post – shop with souvenirs and hand-crafted gifts
Spouting Horn Blowhole
Queen’s Bath
Ha’ena State Park
Wailua Falls
Maniniholo Dry Cave
Kapa’a – popular town known for colorful storefronts, and restaurants including local cuisine
Poipu Beach
hawaii – the big island
Haena Beach – Photo by Pedro Szekely
The largest island named Hawaii is often called The Big Island. It is absolutely one-of-a-kind, with the varying landscapes of different-colored sand beaches, mountains with snow-covered peaks, lava deserts, and rainforests. While this big island feels less crowded than others due to its size, there is still much to see and do.
On the Kona coastline, you have the opportunity to view the bluest water with sea turtles and dolphins. If you prefer water excursions, you could swim with manta rays, go sailing, scuba dive, kayak, parasail, go deep sea fishing, canoe, and paddleboard. If you would rather participate in land activities, you can take a scenic drive, visit one of the several breathtaking beaches, ziplining over a river gorge, go on one of the greatest hikes you’ve ever been on, or play golf at one of the world-class courses on the Kohala Coast.
Points of Interest:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hapuna Beach State Park
Heiau – historic site with ancient Hawaiian temples
Rainbow Falls (Waianuenue)
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Hulihe’e Palace
Hilo Farmers Market
Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls & Kahuna Falls
Punaluu Beach – known for black sand
Historic Hilo Town
Mauna Kea – the tallest volcano in the world/highest point in the state, renowned for stargazing
Papakōlea Beach – known for sand with a green hue
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Waipi’o Valley Overlook
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
OAHU
Photo by Alan Light
The bustling island of Oahu is urban, luxurious, and consists of resorts sitting on the golden, sandy beaches, some of which are more secluded than others. The nightlife is vibrant, the weather is warm, and the adventures are endless. Plus, it is a great place to get the feel for the Polynesian culture and traditions!
Sitting on the south shore of Oahu is Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu. It was previously the home of Hawaii’s monarchy. Now, this city is centered around its dining and shopping.
Points of interest:
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
Byodo-In Temple
Waikiki Beach
Lanai Lookout
Kaneohe Sandbar
Pearl Harbor Museum
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Laie Falls
Tantalus – botanical region popular with birdwatchers
Waimea Bay Beach Park – perfect for surfing
Diamond Head State Monument
Maunawili Falls
Pu’u O Hulu Trail
Lanikai Beach
Crouching Lion
MAUI
Photo by Brett Samuel
Compared to the other 5 islands, Maui could be considered mid-sized. Being more developed than Kauai, but less tourist-filled than Oahu is a main reason that people enjoy traveling here. In this spot, you will uncover wildlife, culture, history, and Hawaii’s most note-worthy beaches. From Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano, is a spectacular view of the sunrise, through a set of clouds.
In Maui, you can enjoy their frequent festivals, underwater reefs, bamboo forests, waterfalls, and jungles abundant with flowers.
Visitors adore swimming with sea turtles, horseback riding, whale watching, windsurfing, snorkeling, and surfing, if you know how!
Points of interest:
Wailea Beach
The Garden of Eden
Kaanapali Beach
Maui Ocean Center
Paia – beach town with coffee shops and boutiques
Ali’i Kula Lavendar Farm
Iao Valley State Monument
Haleakala National Park
Waianapanapa State Park – known for its black sand
Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Napili Beach
Hana Lava Tube
Old Lahaina Luau – great for experiencing hula, traditional dancing, and a Hawaiian buffet
Pua’a Ka’a Waterfalls
lanai
Photo by Curt Smith
Lanai could be considered the most exclusive island of the 6, having remote beaches, high-end resorts, world-class amenities and services, professional golf, and exquisite cuisine. It is ideal for relaxing and healing in a peaceful setting at the spas, which offer lava stone lomilomi and algae body wraps. While this island is private, it does not lack adventure with off-roading in a four-wheel drive vehicle and swimming in tide pools that have been naturally carved out of volcanic rock.
When exploring, you will find unique rock formations and colorful underwater reefs. Popular activities here are lawn bowling, deep sea fishing, shooting clays, scuba diving, private boat charters, and whale watching,
Points of interest:
Lānaʻi Art Center
Keomuku Village
Shark’s Bay
Koloiki Ridge
Lanai City – with restaurants, shops, a park, and theater
Shipwreck Beach (on the north shore)
Kaunolū Fishing Village
Dole Pineapple Plantation
Hulopoe Beach
Sweetheart Rock (at the end of the Puupehe Trail)
Keiki Tide Pool
Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods)
Fisherman’s Trail
Polihua Beach
The Cavendish – 9-hole, free public golf course
Molokai
This would be the quietest and least developed island listed in this blog, therefore, probably not for everyone. It is more for those who don’t mind straying from the beaten path and connecting with nature rather than being pampered at a four-star hotel. That being said, Molokai still has wonderful beaches, rainforests, and the tallest cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Points of interest:
Kapuāiwa Coconut Grove
Murphy’s Beach
Kalaupapa National Historic Park
North Shore Sea Cliffs
Halawa Tropical Flower Farm
Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm
One Ali’i Beach Park
Molokai Forest Reserve
Hālawa Valley – can only be explored on a guided hike
Molokaʻi Heritage Site
Halawa Beach Park
Aliʻi Fishpond
Pāpōhaku Beach
Moaula Falls
Kamakou Preserve
Palaau State Park
I know it seems tough to choose which one to visit still, but hopefully helped a little in knowing the difference between the islands and what they have to offer.
A Sweet Paradise 
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